The clinical trajectory of emerging bipolar disorder among the high-risk offspring of bipolar parents: current understanding and future considerations

Larger putamen in individuals at risk and with manifest bipolar disorder

BACKGROUND

Individuals at risk for bipolar disorder (BD) have a wide range of genetic and non-genetic risk factors, like a positive family history of BD or (sub)threshold affective symptoms. Yet, it is unclear whether these individuals at risk and those diagnosed with BD share similar gray matter brain alterations.

METHODS

In 410 male and female participants aged 17-35 years, we compared gray matter volume (3T MRI) between individuals at risk for BD (as assessed using the EPIbipolar scale; n = 208), patients with a DSM-IV-TR diagnosis of BD (n = 87), and healthy controls (n = 115) using voxel-based morphometry in SPM12/CAT12. We applied conjunction analyses to identify similarities in gray matter volume alterations in individuals at risk and BD patients, relative to healthy controls. We also performed exploratory whole-brain analyses to identify differences in gray matter volume among groups. ComBat was used to harmonize imaging data from seven sites.

RESULTS

Both individuals at risk and BD patients showed larger volumes in the right putamen than healthy controls. Furthermore, individuals at risk had smaller volumes in the right inferior occipital gyrus, and BD patients had larger volumes in the left precuneus, compared to healthy controls. These findings were independent of course of illness (number of lifetime manic and depressive episodes, number of hospitalizations), comorbid diagnoses (major depressive disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety disorder, eating disorder), familial risk, current disease severity (global functioning, remission status), and current medication intake.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that alterations in the right putamen might constitute a vulnerability marker for BD.

Longitudinal studies of bipolar patients and their families: translating findings to advance individualized risk prediction, treatment and research

BACKGROUND

Bipolar disorder is a broad diagnostic construct associated with significant phenotypic and genetic heterogeneity challenging progress in clinical practice and discovery research. Prospective studies of well-characterized patients and their family members have identified lithium responsive (LiR) and lithium non-responsive (LiNR) subtypes that hold promise for advancement.

METHOD

In this narrative review, relevant observations from published longitudinal studies of well-characterized bipolar patients and their families spanning six decades are highlighted. DSM diagnoses based on SADS-L interviews were decided in blind consensus reviews by expert clinicians. Genetic, neurobiological, and psychosocial factors were investigated in subsets of well-characterized probands and adult relatives. Systematic maintenance trials of lithium, antipsychotics, and lamotrigine were carried out. Clinical profiles that included detailed histories of the clinical course, symptom sets and disorders segregating in families were documented. Offspring of LiR and LiNR families were repeatedly assessed up to 20 years using KSADS-PL format interviews and DSM diagnoses and sub-threshold symptoms were decided by expert clinicians in blind consensus reviews using all available clinical and research data.

RESULTS

A characteristic clinical profile differentiated bipolar patients who responded to lithium stabilization from those who did not. The LiR subtype was characterized by a recurrent fully remitting course predominated by depressive episodes and a positive family history of episodic remitting mood disorders, and not schizophrenia. Response to lithium clustered in families and the characteristic clinical profile predicted lithium response, with the episodic remitting course being a strong correlate. There is accumulating evidence that genetic and neurobiological markers differ between LiR and LiNR subtypes. Further, offspring of bipolar parents subdivided by lithium response differed in developmental history, clinical antecedents and early course of mood disorders. Moreover, the nature of the emergent course bred true from parent to offspring, independent of the nature of emergent psychopathology.

CONCLUSIONS

Bipolar disorders are heterogeneous and response to long-term lithium is associated with a familial subtype with characteristic course, treatment response, family history and likely pathogenesis. Incorporating distinctive clinical profiles that index valid bipolar subtypes into routine practice and research will improve patient outcomes and advance the development and translation of novel treatment targets to improve prevention and early intervention.

A characteristic cerebellar biosignature for bipolar disorder, identified with fully automatic machine learning

Background

Transcriptomic profile differences between patients with bipolar disorder and healthy controls can be identified using machine learning and can provide information about the potential role of the cerebellum in the pathogenesis of bipolar disorder.With this aim, user-friendly, fully automated machine learning algorithms can achieve extremely high classification scores and disease-related predictive biosignature identification, in short time frames and scaled down to small datasets.

Method

A fully automated machine learning platform, based on the most suitable algorithm selection and relevant set of hyper-parameter values, was applied on a preprocessed transcriptomics dataset, in order to produce a model for biosignature selection and to classify subjects into groups of patients and controls. The parent GEO datasets were originally produced from the cerebellar and parietal lobe tissue of deceased bipolar patients and healthy controls, using Affymetrix Human Gene 1.0 ST Array.

Results

Patients and controls were classified into two separate groups, with no close-to-the-boundary cases, and this classification was based on the cerebellar transcriptomic biosignature of 25 features (genes), with Area Under Curve 0.929 and Average Precision 0.955. The biosignature includes both genes connected before to bipolar disorder, depression, psychosis or epilepsy, as well as genes not linked before with any psychiatric disease. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis revealed participation of 4 identified features in 6 pathways which have also been associated with bipolar disorder.

Conclusion

Automated machine learning (AutoML) managed to identify accurately 25 genes that can jointly - in a multivariate-fashion - separate bipolar patients from healthy controls with high predictive power. The discovered features lead to new biological insights. Machine Learning (ML) analysis considers the features in combination (in contrast to standard differential expression analysis), removing both irrelevant as well as redundant markers, and thus, focusing to biological interpretation.

Functional outcomes across development in offspring of parents with bipolar disorder

OBJECTIVE

Whereas the risk and course of psychopathology in offspring of parents with bipolar disorder (BD) have been the primary focus of high-risk offspring studies to date, functional outcomes have not been given much attention. We present a systematic review of functional outcomes and quality of life (QoL) across development in offspring of parents with BD and aim to explore the role of offspring psychopathology in these outcomes.

METHOD

We searched Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Cochrane Central, and Google Scholar from inception to June 24, 2022, for studies referring to functional outcomes (global, social, academic or occupational) or QoL in offspring of parents with BD.

RESULTS

From the 6470 records identified, 39 studies were retained (global = 17; social = 17; school = 16; occupational = 3; QoL = 5), including 13 studies that examined multiple domains. For all domains, high heterogeneity was found in study methods and quality. Only 56 % of studies adjusted for offspring psychopathology, impeding interpretation. Global and social functioning generally seemed to be impaired among older offspring (>16 years). Academic performance appeared to be unaffected. School behavior, occupational functioning, and QoL showed mixed results. Offspring psychopathology is associated with social functioning, but the relationship of offspring psychopathology with other domains is less clear.

CONCLUSION

Studies on functional outcome in offspring of parents with BD show predominantly mixed results. Inconsistent adjustment of psychopathology and age limits conclusive interpretation. Functional outcomes should be prioritized as research topics in high-risk studies and the potential associations between familial risk status, offspring psychopathology, and age may inform prevention strategies.

Child and adolescent anxiety as a risk factor for bipolar disorder: A systematic review of longitudinal studies

OBJECTIVES

Several studies have suggested that anxiety disorders in childhood and adolescence often precede the onset of bipolar disorder. We therefore systematically reviewed the relationship between child and adolescent anxiety and later bipolar disorder.

METHODS

Online databases (Medline [for Ovid], EMBASE and PsychINFO) were searched for original, peer-reviewed studies examining the relationship between child and adolescent anxiety and later bipolar disorder. Studies in both community samples and bipolar offspring samples were included.

RESULTS

A total of 16 studies were included in the review. The results were broadly consistent and revealed that child and adolescent anxiety disorders are associated with later bipolar disorder in community samples. In bipolar offspring, child and adolescent anxiety disorders are a marker of increased risk and predict the onset of bipolar disorder and other major mood disorders.

CONCLUSIONS

There is evidence that anxiety disorders in childhood and adolescence increase the risk of later bipolar disorder. Anxiety disorders may be a useful target for early intervention in those at high-risk of bipolar disorder.

Biological rhythms disruption mediates the association between mother's diagnosis of bipolar disorder and offspring's emotional/behavioral problems

OBJECTIVE

The current study assesses whether the association between diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder (BD) in mothers and emotional and behavioral problems (EBP) in their offspring is mediated by a disruption in the offspring's biological rhythms.

METHODS

A probabilistic sample of 492 public school children (ages 7-8, 48 % female) were assessed for biological rhythms disruption and EBP using the Biological Rhythms Interview for Assessment in Neuropsychiatry for Kids and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, respectively. Mothers' mental health (BD = 64) was evaluated using a standardized clinical interview. A mediation analysis was conducted to assess the effect of the mother's diagnosis of BD on the EBP of their offspring in relation to the offspring's biological rhythms disruptions.

RESULTS

When compared to offspring of mothers without BD, offspring of mothers with BD showed greater difficulty in maintaining biological rhythms and higher prevalence of EBP. Using the presence of EBP as the outcome, 75 % of the effect of mother's BD diagnosis was mediated by offspring's biological rhythms disruption.

CONCLUSIONS

Biological rhythms disruption in children fully mediates the effect of the mother's diagnosis of BD on the child's EBP. These data encourage the development of further studies to find effective strategies to prevent and treat biological rhythms disruption in offspring of mothers with BD.

Paediatric bipolar disorder and its controversy

OBJECTIVES

Paediatric bipolar disorder - bipolar disorder occurring in prepubertal children - is a diagnosis subject to considerable controversy. Whilst historically considered to be very rare, proponents since the 1990s have argued that mania can present differently in children and, as such, is much more common than previously thought. Such proposals raise questions about the validity of proposed phenotypes and potential risks of iatrogenic harm.

METHODS

I critically examine the construct of paediatric bipolar disorder using Robins and Guze's (1970, American Journal of Psychiatry126, 983-987) influential criteria for the validity of a psychiatric diagnosis. I review, in turn, evidence relating to its clinical description, delimitation from other conditions, follow-up studies, family studies, laboratory studies, and treatment response.

RESULTS

Across domains, existing research highlights significant challenges establishing the diagnosis. This includes significant heterogeneity in operationalising criteria for children; variable or poor inter-rater reliability; difficulty distinguishing paediatric bipolar disorder from other conditions; large differences in rates of diagnosis between the United States of America and other countries; limited evidence of continuity with adult forms; and a lack of evidence for proposed paediatric phenotypes in children at genetic high-risk of the condition. Laboratory and treatment studies are limited, but also do not provide support for the construct.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence for the more widespread existence of paediatric bipolar disorder and its various proposed phenotypes remains weak. The ongoing popularity of the diagnosis, most evident in America, may reflect social pressures and broader limitations in psychiatric nosology. The uncertainty around the diagnosis highlights the need for careful longitudinal assessment of children potentially affected.

Elevation of C-reactive protein in adolescent bipolar disorder vs. anxiety disorders

Bipolar disorder (BD) largely begins in adolescence, but diagnosis lags for years, causing significant morbidity and mortality, and demonstrating the need for better diagnostic tools. Suggesting an association between BD and immune activity, elevated levels of peripheral inflammatory markers, including C-reactive protein (CRP), have been found in adults with BD. As similar data are extremely limited in adolescents, this study examined CRP levels in adolescents with BD (n = 37) compared to those with anxiety disorders (ADs, n = 157) and healthy controls with no psychiatric diagnoses (HCs, n = 2760). CRP blood levels for patients aged 12-17 years were retrieved from a nationwide repository of deidentified clinical data. After excluding patients with inflammatory conditions, differences in CRP were examined using multivariate and weighted regressions (covariates: demographics and BMI). Mean CRP levels were significantly elevated in adolescents with BD relative to those with ADs and HCs. Mean CRP levels were lower in the ADs cohort versus HCs. Although CRP levels were significantly higher in males and younger patients, the significant between-cohort differences in CRP remained after controlling for multiple confounders. To our knowledge, our study is the first to compare CRP levels between adolescent BD, ADs, and HCs, comprising a novel and essential contribution. Our results suggest the presence of a unique immune process in adolescents with BD and indicate that CRP may represent a biomarker with a crucial role in the diagnostic assessment of adolescent BD.

Epigenetic signatures relating to disease-associated genotypic burden in familial risk of bipolar disorder

Environmental factors contribute to risk of bipolar disorder (BD), but how environmental factors impact the development of psychopathology within the context of elevated genetic risk is unknown. We herein sought to identify epigenetic signatures operating in the context of polygenic risk for BD in young people at high familial risk (HR) of BD. Peripheral blood-derived DNA was assayed using Illumina PsychArray, and Methylation-450K or -EPIC BeadChips. Polygenic risk scores (PRS) were calculated using summary statistics from recent genome-wide association studies for BD, major depressive disorder (MDD) and cross-disorder (meta-analysis of eight psychiatric disorders). Unrelated HR participants of European ancestry (n = 103) were stratified based on their BD-PRS score within the HR-population distribution, and the top two quintiles (High-BD-PRS; n = 41) compared against the bottom two quintiles (Low-BD-PRS; n = 41). The High-BD-PRS stratum also had higher mean cross-disorder-PRS and MDD-PRS (ANCOVA p = 0.035 and p = 0.024, respectively). We evaluated DNA methylation differences between High-BD-PRS and Low-BD-PRS strata using linear models. One differentially methylated probe (DMP) (cg00933603; p = 3.54 × 10-7) in VARS2, a mitochondrial aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase, remained significantly hypomethylated after multiple-testing correction. Overall, BD-PRS appeared to broadly impact epigenetic processes, with 1,183 genes mapped to nominal DMPs (p < 0.05); these displayed convergence with genes previously associated with BD, schizophrenia, chronotype, and risk taking. We tested poly-methylomic epigenetic profiles derived from nominal DMPs in two independent samples (n = 54 and n = 82, respectively), and conducted an exploratory evaluation of the effects of family environment, indexing cohesion and flexibility. This study highlights an important interplay between heritable risk and epigenetic factors, which warrant further exploration.

Mismatch negativity and P3a amplitude in children with familial high risk of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder - A Danish register-based EEG study

BACKGROUND

Infrequent deviants in a rapid sequence of sounds elicit a negative cortical potential over the frontocentral midline (mismatch negativity, MMN) followed by a positive deflection (P3a). Both cortical potentials are consistently attenuated in patients with schizophrenia (SZ), and, to a lesser degree, in patients with bipolar disorder (BP).

OBJECTIVE

Since it is unclear when MMN and P3a deficits arise relative to the emergence of symptoms, we examined whether MMN and P3a alterations are already detectable in children with familial high risk.

METHODS

Using 128-channel electroencephalography, we recorded auditory MMN and P3a evoked by a deviation in sound duration, frequency, or both in 51 children with familial high-risk for SZ (FHR-SZ), 41 children with familial high-risk for BP (FHR-BP), and 39 population-based children (PBC) at a mean age of 12.10.

RESULTS

MMN amplitude evoked by a duration deviant was larger in children with FHR-BP compared to PBC and FHR-SZ. P3a amplitude in response to a duration ∗ frequency deviant was larger in children with FHR-BP compared to children with FHR-SZ, but not compared to PBC. MMN- and P3a-peak latency did not differ between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

At an age of around 12 years, children with FHR-BP display enhanced neural sensitivity to change detection of duration deviants, while FHR-SZ showed a normal response pattern. Longitudinal recordings in high-risk children during adolescence are required to elucidate the temporal trajectories of MMN and P3a responses and how they relate to the emergence of first clinical symptoms in SZ and BP.

Psychosocial markers of age at onset in bipolar disorder: a machine learning approach

BACKGROUND

Bipolar disorder is a chronic and severe mental health disorder. Early stratification of individuals into subgroups based on age at onset (AAO) has the potential to inform diagnosis and early intervention. Yet, the psychosocial predictors associated with AAO are unknown.

AIMS

We aim to identify psychosocial factors associated with bipolar disorder AAO.

METHOD

Using data from the Bipolar Disorder Research Network UK, we employed least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression to identify psychosocial factors associated with bipolar disorder AAO. Twenty-eight factors were entered into our model, with AAO as our outcome measure.

RESULTS

We included 1022 participants with bipolar disorder (μ = 23.0, s.d. ± 9.86) in our model. Six variables predicted an earlier AAO: childhood abuse (β = -0.2855), regular cannabis use in the year before onset (β = -0.2765), death of a close family friend or relative in the 6 months before onset (β = -0.2435), family history of suicide (β = -0.1385), schizotypal personality traits (β = -0.1055) and irritable temperament (β = -0.0685). Five predicted a later AAO: the average number of alcohol units consumed per week in the year before onset (β = 0.1385); birth of a child in the 6 months before onset (β = 0.2755); death of parent, partner, child or sibling in the 6 months before onset (β = 0.3125); seeking work without success for 1 month or more in the 6 months before onset (β = 0.3505) and a major financial crisis in the 6 months before onset (β = 0.4575).

CONCLUSIONS

The identified predictor variables have the potential to help stratify high-risk individuals into likely AAO groups, to inform treatment provision and early intervention.

Long term outcomes of pediatric Bipolar-I disorder: A prospective follow-up analysis attending to full syndomatic, subsyndromal and functional types of remission

OBJECTIVE

To examine patterns of remission of pediatric bipolar I (BP-I) disorder attending to syndromatic, symptomatic, and functional outcomes from childhood to adolescent and young adult years.

METHODS

We analyzed data from a six-year prospective follow-up study of youths aged 6-17 years with BP-I disorder. Subjects were comprehensively assessed at baseline and subsequently at four, five, and six years thereafter. Assessments included structured diagnostic interviews and measures of psychosocial and educational functioning. Patterns of remission were calculated attending to whether syndromatic, symptomatic, and functional remission were achieved.

RESULTS

Kaplan-Meier failure functions revealed that the probability of functional recovery from pediatric BP-I disorder was very low. Of the 88 youths assessed, only 6% (N = 5) of the sample were euthymic with normal functioning during the year prior to their last follow-up assessment (average follow-up time = 5.8 ± 1.8 years).

CONCLUSIONS

These results provide compelling evidence of the high level of persistence of pediatric BP-I disorder. Symptomatic and functional remission were uncommon and most subjects continued to demonstrate high morbidity into late adolescence and early adulthood.

Circulating miRNAs as Potential Biomarkers for Patient Stratification in Bipolar Disorder: A Combined Review and Data Mining Approach

Bipolar disorder is a debilitating psychiatric condition that is shaped in a concerted interplay between hereditary and triggering risk factors. Profound depression and mania define the disorder, but high clinical heterogeneity among patients complicates diagnosis as well as pharmacological intervention. Identification of peripheral biomarkers that capture the genomic response to the exposome may thus progress the development of personalized treatment. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a prominent role in of post-transcriptional gene regulation in the context of brain development and mental health. They are coordinately modulated by multifarious effectors, and alteration in their expression profile has been reported in a variety of psychiatric conditions. Intriguingly, miRNAs can be released from CNS cells and enter circulatory bio-fluids where they remain remarkably stable. Hence, peripheral circulatory miRNAs may act as bio-indicators for the combination of genetic risk, environmental exposure, and/or treatment response. Here we provide a comprehensive literature search and data mining approach that summarize current experimental evidence supporting the applicability of miRNAs for patient stratification in bipolar disorder.

Psychosocial Treatments for Bipolar Disorder in Children and Adolescents

Evidence suggests that adjunctive psychosocial intervention for the treatment of pediatric bipolar spectrum disorders (BPSDs) is effective, feasible, and highly accepted as both an acute and maintenance treatment for youth with BPSD diagnoses as well as a preventive treatment for high-risk youth who are either asymptomatic or exhibit subsyndromal mood symptoms. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of all known evidence-based interventions, including detailed descriptions of treatment targets and core components, results of clinical trials, and updated research on mediators and moderators of treatment efficacy. Treatments are presented systematically according to level of empirical support (i.e., well established, probably efficacious, possibly efficacious, experimental, or questionable); upcoming and ongoing trials are included when possible. In line with a staging approach, preventive interventions are presented separately. Recommendations for best practices based on age, stage, and additional evidence-based child and family factors shown to affect treatment outcomes are provided. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, Volume 18 is May 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.

What we learn about bipolar disorder from large-scale neuroimaging: Findings and future directions from the ENIGMA Bipolar Disorder Working Group

MRI-derived brain measures offer a link between genes, the environment and behavior and have been widely studied in bipolar disorder (BD). However, many neuroimaging studies of BD have been underpowered, leading to varied results and uncertainty regarding effects. The Enhancing Neuro Imaging Genetics through Meta-Analysis (ENIGMA) Bipolar Disorder Working Group was formed in 2012 to empower discoveries, generate consensus findings and inform future hypothesis-driven studies of BD. Through this effort, over 150 researchers from 20 countries and 55 institutions pool data and resources to produce the largest neuroimaging studies of BD ever conducted. The ENIGMA Bipolar Disorder Working Group applies standardized processing and analysis techniques to empower large-scale meta- and mega-analyses of multimodal brain MRI and improve the replicability of studies relating brain variation to clinical and genetic data. Initial BD Working Group studies reveal widespread patterns of lower cortical thickness, subcortical volume and disrupted white matter integrity associated with BD. Findings also include mapping brain alterations of common medications like lithium, symptom patterns and clinical risk profiles and have provided further insights into the pathophysiological mechanisms of BD. Here we discuss key findings from the BD working group, its ongoing projects and future directions for large-scale, collaborative studies of mental illness.

Differentiating white matter measures that protect against vs. predispose to bipolar disorder and other psychopathology in at-risk youth

Bipolar disorder (BD) is highly heritable. Identifying objective biomarkers reflecting pathophysiological processes predisposing to, versus protecting against BD, can help identify BD risk in offspring of BD parents. We recruited 21 BD participants with a first-degree relative with BD, 25 offspring of BD parents, 27 offspring of comparison parents with non-BD psychiatric disorders, and 32 healthy offspring of healthy parents. In at-risk groups, 23 had non-BD diagnoses and 29, no Axis-I diagnoses(healthy). Five at-risk offspring who developed BD post scan(Converters) were included. Diffusion imaging(dMRI) analysis with tract segmentation identified between-group differences in the microstructure of prefrontal tracts supporting emotional regulation relevant to BD: forceps minor, anterior thalamic radiation(ATR), cingulum bundle(CB), and uncinate fasciculus(UF). BD participants showed lower fractional anisotropy (FA) in the right CB (anterior portion) than other groups (q < 0.05); and in bilateral ATR (posterior portion) versus at-risk groups (q < 0.001). Healthy, but not non-BD, at-risk participants showed significantly higher FA in bilateral ATR clusters than healthy controls (qs < 0.05). At-risk groups showed higher FA in these clusters than BD participants (qs < 0.05). Non-BD versus healthy at-risk participants, and Converters versus offspring of BD parents, showed lower FA in the right ATR cluster (qs < 0.05). Low anterior right CB FA in BD participants versus other groups might result from having BD. High bilateral ATR FA in at-risk groups, and in healthy at-risk participants, versus healthy controls might protect against BD/other psychiatric disorders. Absence of elevated right ATR FA in non-BD versus healthy at-risk participants, and in Converters versus non-converter offspring of BD parents, might lower protection against BD in at-risk groups.

Development and validation of a risk calculator for major mood disorders among the offspring of bipolar parents using information collected in routine clinical practice

BACKGROUND

Family history is a significant risk factor for bipolar disorders (BD), but the magnitude of risk varies considerably between individuals within and across families. Accurate risk estimation may increase motivation to reduce modifiable risk exposures and identify individuals appropriate for monitoring over the peak risk period. Our objective was to develop and independently replicate an individual risk calculator for bipolar spectrum disorders among the offspring of BD parents using data collected in routine clinical practice.

METHODS

Data from the longitudinal Canadian High-Risk Offspring cohort study collected from 1996 to 2020 informed the development of a 5 and 10-year risk calculator using parametric time-to-event models with a cure fraction and a generalized gamma distribution. The calculator was then externally validated using data from the Lausanne-Geneva High-Risk Offspring cohort study collected from 1996 to 2020. A time-varying C-index by age in years was used to estimate the probability that the model correctly classified risk. Bias corrected estimates and 95% confidence limits were derived using a jackknife resampling approach.

FINDINGS

The primary outcome was age of onset of a major mood disorder. The risk calculator was most accurate at classifying risk in mid to late adolescence in the Canadian cohort (n = 285), and a similar pattern was replicated in the Swiss cohort (n = 128). Specifically, the time-varying C-index indicated that there was approximately a 70% chance that the model would correctly predict which of two 15-year-olds would be more likely to develop the outcome in the future. External validation within a smaller Swiss cohort showed mixed results.

INTERPRETATION

Findings suggest that this model may be a useful clinical tool in routine practice for improved individualized risk estimation of bipolar spectrum disorders among the adolescent offspring of a BD parent; however, risk estimation in younger high-risk offspring is less accurate, perhaps reflecting the evolving nature of psychopathology in early childhood. Based on external validation with a Swiss cohort, the risk calculator may not be as predictive in more heterogenous high-risk populations.

FUNDING

The Canadian High-Risk Study has been funded by consecutive operating grants from the Canadian Institutes for Health Research, currently CIHR PJT Grant 152796 he Lausanne-Geneva high-risk study was and is supported by five grants from the Swiss National Foundation (#3200-040,677, #32003B-105,969, #32003B-118,326, #3200-049,746 and #3200-061,974), three grants from the Swiss National Foundation for the National Centres of Competence in Research project "The Synaptic Bases of Mental Diseases" (#125,759, #158,776, and #51NF40 - 185,897), and a grant from GlaxoSmithKline Clinical Genetics.

Generalizing the Prediction of Bipolar Disorder Onset Across High-Risk Populations

OBJECTIVE

Risk calculators (RC) to predict clinical outcomes are gaining interest. An RC to estimate risk of bipolar spectrum disorders (BPSD) could help reduce the duration of undiagnosed BPSD and improve outcomes. Our objective was to adapt an RC previously validated in the Pittsburgh Bipolar Offspring Study (BIOS) sample to achieve adequate predictive ability in both familial high-risk and clinical high-risk youths.

METHOD

Participants (aged 6-12 years at baseline) from the Longitudinal Assessment of Manic Symptoms (LAMS) study (N = 473) were evaluated semi-annually. Evaluations included a Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders (K-SADS) interview. After testing an RC that closely approximated the original, we made modifications to improve model prediction. Models were trained in the BIOS data, which included biennial K-SADS assessments, and tested in LAMS. The final model was then trained in LAMS participants, including family history of BPSD as a predictor, and tested in the familial high-risk sample.

RESULTS

Over follow-up, 65 youths newly met criteria for BPSD. The original RC identified youths who developed BPSD only moderately well (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.67). Eliminating predictors other than the K-SADS screening items for mania and depression improved accuracy (AUC = 0.73) and generalizability. The model trained in LAMS, including family history as a predictor, performed well in the BIOS sample (AUC = 0.74).

CONCLUSION

The clinical circumstances under which the assessment of symptoms occurs affects RC accuracy; focusing on symptoms related to the onset of BPSD improved generalizability. Validation of the RC under clinically realistic circumstances will be an important next step.

Navigating the diagnostic challenges of bipolar disorder in youth

ABSTRACT

Bipolar disorder in youth is difficult to diagnose and treat, but early detection is important to mitigate risks and improve patient outcomes. This article evaluates the unique challenges of diagnosing and treating bipolar disorder in children and adolescents. Bipolar disorder is associated with a significant personal and societal health burden and frequently is misdiagnosed and incorrectly treated. More research is needed to understand the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder and which treatment options are best throughout the lifespan.

Early detection of bipolar disorders and treatment recommendations for help-seeking adolescents and young adults: Findings of the Early Detection and Intervention Center Dresden

Background

Early identification and intervention of individuals with risk factors for or subtle prodromal symptoms of bipolar disorders (BD) may improve the illness course and prevent adverse long-term consequences.

Methods

We examined sociodemographic, clinical and psychopathological characteristics of help-seeking adolescents and young adults who consulted the Early Detection and Intervention Center Dresden at the University of Dresden (Germany) and presented with or without pre-defined at-risk criteria for BD. The standardized diagnostic procedure for all help-seeking youth included a comprehensive psychiatric history and a structured clinical interview. When BD at-risk state was suspected, early detection instruments (EPIbipolar, BPSS-FP) were applied. Treatment recommendations were formulated in multi-professional case conferences.

Results

Out of 890 help-seeking persons between 05/2009 and 04/2018, 582 (65%) completed the diagnostic process. Of these, 24 (4%) had manifest BD and 125 (21%) fulfilled at-risk BD criteria (age = 23.9 ± 0.6 years, female = 62%). Of the pre-defined main risk factors, family history for BD was reported in 22% of the at-risk persons, (hypo-)mania risk state in 44%, and increasing cyclothymic mood swings with increased activity in 48%. The most common secondary risk factors were decreased psychosocial functioning (78%), lifetime diagnosis of depressive disorder (67%) and specific sleep/circadian rhythm disturbances (59%). Substance use was very common in subjects at-risk for BD (cannabis = 50%, alcohol = 33%) and highest in patients with BD (cannabis = 75%, alcohol = 40%). Psychiatric treatment history, including psychopharmacological therapy, was similar between the groups, while treatment recommendations differed, with more advice for psychotherapy and antidepressants in the at-risk group with a lifetime diagnosis of depression and more advice for specialized BD treatment including mood stabilizers in patients with BD.

Conclusion

This analysis on the phenomenology of different BD at-risk stages suggests that early detection of individuals presenting with suggested risk factors for the development of BD is feasible in help-seeking young people. Future research should further develop/test stage-specific prevention and early targeted intervention approaches that were described in a naturalistic setting.

Predicting the risk and timing of major mood disorder in offspring of bipolar parents: exploring the utility of a neural network approach

Background

Bipolar disorder onset peaks over early adulthood and confirmed family history is a robust risk factor. However, penetrance within families varies and most children of bipolar parents will not develop the illness. Individualized risk prediction would be helpful for identifying those young people most at risk and to inform targeted intervention. Using prospectively collected data from the Canadian Flourish High-risk Offspring cohort study available in routine practice, we explored the use of a neural network, known as the Partial Logistic Artificial Neural Network (PLANN) to predict the time to diagnosis of major mood disorders in 1, 3 and 5-year intervals.

Results

Overall, for predictive performance, PLANN outperformed the more traditional discrete survival model for 3-year and 5-year predictions. PLANN was better able to discriminate or rank individuals based on their risk of developing a major mood disorder, better able to predict the probability of developing a major mood disorder and better able to identify individuals who would be diagnosed in future time intervals. The average AUC achieved by PLANN for 5-year prediction was 0.74, which indicates good discrimination.

Conclusions

This evaluation of PLANN is a useful step in the investigation of using neural networks as tools in the prediction of mood disorders in at-risk individuals and the potential that neural networks have in this field. Future research is needed to replicate these findings in a separate high-risk offspring sample.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40345-021-00228-2.

'Pediatric Bipolar Disorder' rates are still lower than claimed: a re-examination of eight epidemiological surveys used by an updated meta-analysis

Background

‘Pediatric bipolar disorder’ (PBD) is a controversial diagnosis with varying rates of clinical diagnosis. A highly cited meta-analysis (Van Meter et al. 2011) of a dozen epidemiological surveys suggested a global community prevalence of PBD of 1.8%. This was updated to 3.9% with eight additional surveys (Van Meter et al. 2019a). In terms of the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions, the heterogenous community surveys were arguably unsuitable for statistical meta-analysis and warranted a narrative analysis. A narrative analysis (Parry et al. 2018) of the original 12 surveys concluded rates of PBD were substantially lower than 1.8% and led to a nine-article debate on the validity, arguable overdiagnosis and iatrogenic aspects of the PBD diagnosis (e.g. Carlson and Dubicka Child Adolesc Mental Health 21:86–87, 2019). This article extends the narrative analysis to include the eight newer community surveys.

Methods

A narrative analysis of the methodologies and the prevalence rates reported by the epidemiological surveys.

Results

Across all twenty surveys there was significant variation in methodologies and reported prevalence rates. Of the eight newer surveys, five (two Brazilian, one English, one Turkish, one United States) provided information of pre-adolescent prevalence rates of bipolar spectrum disorder. These pre-adolescent rates were zero or close to zero. Rates of adolescent hypomania and mania were higher, but follow-up data in two studies suggested hypomania might sometimes achieve prolonged remission or not lead to adult bipolar disorder.

Limitations

Methods in the original surveys vary and criteria used for various bipolar diagnoses were not always fully described. This limitation applies to a narrative analysis but also to a statistical meta-analysis.

Conclusion

Bipolar disorder is very rare in childhood and rare in adolescence. PBD as a diagnostic construct fails to correlate with adult bipolar disorder and the term should be abandoned. Hypomanic syndromes in adolescence may not always progress to adult bipolar disorder. Early diagnosis of bipolar disorder is important, but over-diagnosis risks adverse iatrogenic consequences.

Bipolar disorder: Trimodal age-at-onset distribution

OBJECTIVE

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a chronic mental health disorder with significant morbidity and mortality. Age at onset (AAO) may be a key variable in delineating more homogeneous subgroups of BD patients. However, no known research has systematically assessed how BD age-at-onset subgroups should be defined.

METHODS

We systematically searched the following databases: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus, Proquest Dissertations and Theses, Google Scholar and BIOSIS Previews. Original quantitative English language studies investigating AAO in BD were sought.

RESULTS

A total of 9454 unique publications were identified. Twenty-one of these were included in data analysis (n = 22981 BD participants). Fourteen of these studies (67%, n = 13626 participants) found a trimodal AAO distribution: early-onset (µ = 17.3, σ = 1.19, 45% of sample), mid-onset (µ = 26.0, σ = 1.72, 35%), and late-onset (µ = 41.9, σ = 6.16, 20%). Five studies (24%, n = 1422 participants) described a bimodal AAO distribution: early-onset (µ = 24.3, σ = 6.57, 66% of sample) and late-onset (µ = 46.3, σ = 14.15, 34%). Two studies investigated cohort effects on BD AAO and found that when the sample was not split by cohort, a trimodal AAO was the winning model, but when separated by cohort a bimodal distribution fit the data better.

CONCLUSIONS

We propose that the field conceptualises bipolar disorder age-at-onset subgroups as referring broadly to life stages. Demarcating BD AAO groups can inform treatment and provide a framework for future research to continue to investigate potential mechanisms of disease onset.

The association between manic symptoms in adolescence and preschool symptoms: The importance of family history

OBJECTIVES

First, to investigate whether specific manic symptoms in preschool predict manic symptom severity in adolescence. Second, to investigate the interaction between family history (FH) of bipolar disorder (BP) and preschool manic symptoms in predicting later adolescent manic symptom severity.

METHODS

This analysis utilized data from the Preschool Depression Study (PDS) which followed 306 preschoolers aged 3-6 years over time since 2003. Only subjects who had data both at baseline (age 3-6 years) and at or after age 12 were included (n = 122). Baseline manic symptom severity scores and diagnoses were assessed by the Preschool Age Psychiatric Assessment (PAPA). Manic symptoms severity at age ≥12 was assessed by the Kiddie Mania Rating Scale (KMRS). FH were ascertained by Family Interview for Genetic Studies (FIGS). Multilevel models of KMRS total score at age ≥12 by preschool mania symptoms with gender, baseline age, baseline ADHD, as well as baseline MDD diagnosis as covariates, and false discovery rate correction were used in statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Hypertalkativity, flight of ideas, uninhibited gregariousness, decreased need for sleep (DNFS), and increased motor pressure/ motor activity/ energy in preschool were associated with increased KMRS score at age ≥12. Racing thoughts, inappropriate laughing, and DNFS in early childhood were associated with higher manic symptoms in adolescence in subjects with FH of BP compared to those without FH.

CONCLUSION

The longitudinal clinical importance of displaying manic symptoms (racing thoughts, inappropriate laughing, and DNFS) in early childhood varies by FH. Among the aforementioned symptoms, DNFS was a robust predictor of later manic symptoms. Assessing FH of BP is very important in clinical risk prediction from early childhood.

[Diagnostics and early recognition of bipolar disorders]

BACKGROUND

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a relevant psychiatric disorder, which requires early identification and treatment.

OBJECTIVE

What are the guideline-concordant diagnostic and early recognition procedures regarding BD?

RESULTS

The current German S3 guidelines on BD are based on the ICD-10. The multiaxial and dimensional description should include disorder-relevant somatic, psychological and social factors as well as the level of functional impairment. A BD can be diagnosed when at least two affective episodes have occurred, of which at least one must have been hypomanic, manic or mixed. In people considered at increased risk for BD, (subsyndromal) symptoms should be identified via the patient history and screening tools, e.g. the hypomania checklist 32 (HCL-32) and the mood disorder questionnaire (MDQ). The differential diagnosis of BD should exclude unipolar depression, dysthymia, cyclothymia, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders and substance-induced or organically related BD. The risk of comorbid psychiatric disorders is increased 8-13-fold in BD. The most common somatic disorders include obesity, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, musculoskeletal disorders and migraine. Observation of the course by the clinician and the patient (e.g. mood charting) as well as examinations before and during pharmacological treatment should be part of the treatment plan. Early recognition of BD during a so-called prodromal stage is currently not reliably possible. In the case of a clinical suspicion, e.g. due to subsyndromal (hypo)manic symptoms, comorbid conditions should be addressed and symptom-based psychotherapeutic interventions should be considered.

CONCLUSION

Early recognition and accurate diagnosis of BD, which enables adequate and timely treatment, can improve outcomes.

Improving early recognition and intervention in people at increased risk for the development of bipolar disorder: study protocol of a prospective-longitudinal, naturalistic cohort study (Early-BipoLife)

Background

Bipolar disorders (BD) belong to the most severe mental disorders, characterized by an early onset and recurrent, severe episodes or a chronic course with poor psychosocial functioning in a proportion of patients. Many patients with BD experience substantial symptomatology months or even years before full BD manifestation. Adequate diagnosis and treatment is often delayed, which is associated with a worse outcome. This study aims to prospectively evaluate and improve early recognition and intervention strategies for persons at-risk for BD.

Methods

Early-BipoLife is a prospective-longitudinal cohort study of 1419 participants (aged 15–35 years) with at least five waves of assessment over a period of at least 2 years (baseline, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months). A research consortium of ten university and teaching hospitals across Germany conducts this study. The following risk groups (RGs) were recruited: RG I: help-seeking youth and young adults consulting early recognition centres/facilities presenting ≥ 1 of the proposed risk factors for BD, RG II: in-/outpatients with unipolar depressive syndrome, and RG III: in-/outpatients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The reference cohort was selected from the German representative IMAGEN cohort. Over the study period, the natural course of risk and resilience factors, early symptoms of BD and changes of symptom severity (including conversion to manifest BD) are observed. Psychometric properties of recently developed, structured instruments on potential risk factors for conversion to BD and subsyndromal symptomatology (Bipolar Prodrome Symptom Scale, Bipolar at-risk criteria, EPIbipolar) and biomarkers that potentially improve prediction are investigated. Moreover, actual treatment recommendations are monitored in the participating specialized services and compared to recently postulated clinical categorization and treatment guidance in the field of early BD.

Discussion

Findings from this study will contribute to an improved knowledge about the natural course of BD, from the onset of first noticeable symptoms (precursors) to fully developed BD, and about mechanisms of conversion from subthreshold to manifest BD. Moreover, these generated data will provide information for the development of evidence-based guidelines for early-targeted detection and preventive intervention for people at risk for BD.

Demographic and Clinical Characteristics, Including Subsyndromal Symptoms Across Bipolar-Spectrum Disorders in Adolescents

Objectives: Bipolar disorder (BD) is a debilitating illness that often starts at an early age. Prevention of first and subsequent mood episodes, which are usually preceded by a period characterized by subthreshold symptoms is important. We compared demographic and clinical characteristics including severity and duration of subsyndromal symptoms across adolescents with three different bipolar-spectrum disorders. Methods: Syndromal and subsyndromal psychopathology were assessed in adolescent inpatients (age = 12-18 years) with a clinical mood disorder diagnosis. Assessments included the validated Bipolar Prodrome Symptom Interview and Scale-Prospective (BPSS-P). We compared phenomenology across patients with a research consensus conference-confirmed DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition) diagnoses of BD-I, BD-not otherwise specified (NOS), or mood disorder (MD) NOS. Results: Seventy-six adolescents (age = 15.6 ± 1.4 years, females = 59.2%) were included (BD-I = 24; BD-NOS = 29; MD-NOS = 23) in this study. Median baseline global assessment of functioning scale score was 21 (interquartile range = 17-40; between-group p = 0.31). Comorbidity was frequent, and similar across groups, including disruptive behavior disorders (55.5%, p = 0.27), anxiety disorders (40.8%, p = 0.98), and personality disorder traits (25.0%, p = 0.21). Mania symptoms (most frequent: irritability = 93.4%, p = 0.82) and depressive symptoms (most frequent: depressed mood = 81.6%, p = 0.14) were common in all three BD-spectrum groups. Manic and depressive symptoms were more severe in both BD-I and BD-NOS versus MD-NOS (p < 0.0001). Median duration of subthreshold manic symptoms was shorter in MD-NOS versus BD-NOS (11.7 vs. 20.4 weeks, p = 0.002) and substantial in both groups. The most used psychotropics upon discharge were antipsychotics (65.8%; BD-I = 79.2%; BD-NOS = 62.1%; MD-NOS = 56.5%, p = 0.227), followed by mood stabilizers (43.4%; BD-I = 66.7%; BD-NOS = 31.0%; MD-NOS = 34.8%, p = 0.02) and antidepressants (19.7%; BD-I = 20.8%; BD-NOS = 10.3%; MD-NOS = 30.4%). Conclusions: Youth with BD-I, BD-NOS, and MD-NOS experience considerable symptomatology and are functionally impaired, with few differences observed in psychiatric comorbidity and clinical severity. Moreover, youth with BD-NOS and MD-NOS undergo a period with subthreshold manic symptoms, enabling identification and, possibly, preventive intervention of those at risk for developing BD or other affective episodes requiring hospitalization.

Pre-pubertal bipolar disorder: origins and current status of the controversy

BACKGROUND

Evidence from epidemiological, clinical and high-risk studies has established that the peak period of risk for onset of bipolar disorder spans late adolescence and early adulthood. However, the proposal of the existence of a pre-pubertal form of bipolar disorder manifesting in early childhood created substantial debate. In this narrative review, the literature and contributing factors pertaining to the controversy surrounding the proposed pre-pubertal bipolar disorder subtype are discussed. The resolution of the debate and lessons learned are highlighted.

MAIN BODY

In the mid 1990s US researchers proposed that chronic irritability and explosive temper in pre-pubertal children with pre-existing ADHD and/or other learning and developmental disorders might represent a variant of mania. A number of factors contributed to this proposal including severely ill children with no diagnostic home given changes in the ADHD DSM diagnostic criteria and over-reliance on symptoms and structured interviews rather than on a clinical assessment incorporating developmental history, social context and clinical course. Prospective studies of children at high familial risk did not support the proposed pre-pubertal bipolar phenotype; but rather provided convergent evidence that bipolar disorder onset in adolescence and early adulthood not uncommonly preceded by sleep and internalizing symptoms and most often debuting as depression in adolescence (after puberty). Epidemiological studies of population and hospital discharge data provided evidence that the pre-pubertal bipolar phenotype was largely a US driven phenomenon.

CONCLUSIONS

Psychiatric diagnosis is particularly challenging given the current lack of objective biomarkers. However, validity and utility of clinical diagnoses can be strengthened if all available predictive information is used to formulate a diagnosis. As in other areas of medicine, critical information required to make a valid diagnosis includes developmental history, clinical course, family history and treatment response-weighed against the known trajectories of classical disorders. Moreover, given that psychiatric disorders are in evolution over childhood and adolescence and symptoms, in of themselves, are often non-specific, a thorough clinical assessment incorporating collateral history and psychosocial context is paramount. Such an approach might have avoided or at least brought a more timely resolution to the debate on pre-pubertal mania.

What is bipolar disorder? A disease model of dysregulated energy expenditure

Advances in the understanding and management of bipolar disorder (BD) have been slow to emerge. Despite notable recent developments in neurosciences, our conceptualization of the nature of this mental disorder has not meaningfully progressed. One of the key reasons for this scenario is the continuing lack of a comprehensive disease model. Within the increasing complexity of modern research methods, there is a clear need for an overarching theoretical framework, in which findings are assimilated and predictions are generated. In this review and hypothesis article, we propose such a framework, one in which dysregulated energy expenditure is a primary, sufficient cause for BD. Our proposed model is centered on the disruption of the molecular and cellular network regulating energy production and expenditure, as well its potential secondary adaptations and compensatory mechanisms. We also focus on the putative longitudinal progression of this pathological process, considering its most likely periods for onset, such as critical periods that challenges energy homeostasis (e.g. neurodevelopment, social isolation), and the resulting short and long-term phenotypical manifestations.

Temporal Structure of Mixed States: Does Sensitization Link Life Course to Episodes?

Susceptibility to combined depressive and manic syndromes correlates strongly with arousal-related symptoms including impulsivity, anxiety and agitation. This relationship to a driven, "mixed" activation-depression state, generated by a life-long process, was described in classical times. Course of illness in mixed states includes increased episode frequency, duration, earlier onset, and association with addiction- and trauma/stress-related disorders. Mixed episodes have catecholamine and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical activity increased beyond nonmixed states of similar symptom severity. These properties resemble behavioral sensitization, where salient, survival-related stimuli (traumatic or rewarding) can generate persistently exaggerated responses with disrupted arousal and reward, with potential for suicide and other severe consequences.

Interactions of immediate and long-term action regulation in the course and complications of bipolar disorder

Immediate and long-term mechanisms interact in the regulation of action. We will examine neurobiology and practical clinical consequences of these interactions. Long-term regulation of immediate behavioural control is based on analogous responses to highly rewarding or stressful stimuli: (i) impulsivity is a failure of the balance between activation and inhibition in the immediate regulation of action. (ii) Sensitization is a persistently exaggerated behavioural or physiological response to highly salient stimuli, such as addictive stimuli or inescapable stress. Sensitization can generalize across classes of stimuli. (iii) Impulsivity, possibly related to poor modulation of catecholaminergic and glutamatergic functions, may facilitate development of long-term sensitized responses to stressful or addictive stimuli. In turn, impulsivity is prominent in sensitized behaviour. (iv) While impulsivity and sensitization are general components of behaviour, their interactions are prominent in the course of bipolar disorder, emphasizing roles of substance-use, recurrent course and stressors. (v) Suicide is a complex and severe behaviour that exemplifies the manner in which impulsivity facilitates behavioural sensitization and is, in turn, increased by it, leading to inherently unpredictable behaviour. (vi) Interactions between impulsivity and sensitization can provide targets for complementary preventive and treatment strategies for severe immediate and long-term behavioural disorders. Progress along these lines will be facilitated by predictors of susceptibility to behavioural sensitization. This article is part of the theme issue 'Risk taking and impulsive behaviour: fundamental discoveries, theoretical perspectives and clinical implications'.

An International Society of Bipolar Disorders task force report: Precursors and prodromes of bipolar disorder

OBJECTIVES

To clarify the clinical features preceding the onset of bipolar disorder (BD) has become a public health priority for the prevention of high morbidity and mortality. BD remains frequently under- or misdiagnosed, and under- or mistreated, often for years.

METHODS

We assessed the predictive value of precursors and prodromes of BD. We assessed precursors of first-lifetime manic or hypomanic episodes with/without mixed features in retrospective and prospective studies. The task force evaluated and summarized separately assessments of familial risk, premorbid personality traits, retrospective, and prospective studies.

RESULTS

Cyclothymic features, a family history of BD, retrospectively reported attenuated manic symptoms, prospectively identified subthreshold symptoms of hypomania, recurrence of depression, panic anxiety and psychotic features, have been identified as clinical precursors of BD. The prodromal symptoms like [hypo]mania often appears to be long enough to encourage early identification and timely intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

The predictive value of any risk factor identified remains largely unknown. Prospective controlled studies are urgently needed for prevention and effective treatment.

Anxiety disorders anticipate the diagnosis of bipolar disorder in comorbid patients: Findings from an Italian tertiary clinic

BACKGROUND

Studies indicate bipolar disorder (BD) syndromal symptoms are commonly preceded by sub-syndromal BD symptoms, dysregulated sleep, irritability, and anxiety. We aimed to evaluate prevalence and clinical correlates of anxiety disorders (ADs) at BD onset in outpatients with versus without at least one AD at BD onset.

METHODS

246 bipolar spectrum outpatients, according to the text revision of the fourth edition of the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM- IV-TR), attending Sacco University Hospital in Milan, were recruited and their onset and clinical features assessed retrospectively. Patients were stratified into those with versus without an AD at BD onset (w/A and wo/A), according to a semi-structured clinical interview to provide diagnoses according to (DSM- IV-TR).

RESULTS

29% of patients reported being w/A, among whom Panic Disorder (PD, in 55.6%) was the most frequent AD, and first AD occurred approximately 4 years before BD diagnosis. Patients w/A versus wo/A had higher (p < 0.05) rates of BDII and first mood episode being depression versus elevation (mania/hypomania), and lifetime rates of separation anxiety disorder, substance poly-abuse and benzodiazepine abuse. In contrast, patients wo/A had higher lifetime rates of alcohol and illicit drug use.

CONCLUSION

In this naturalistic sample, ADs, in particular PD, preceded BD in almost 1/3 of BD outpatients, and had distinctive clinical correlates. Further investigation into relationships between BD and AD at onset may enhance early BD diagnosis and treatment.

Clinical differences between patients with pediatric bipolar disorder with and without a parental history of bipolar disorder

Pediatric Bipolar Disorder (PBD) is a highly heritable condition responsible for 18% of all pediatric mental health hospitalizations. Despite the heritability of this disorder, few studies have assessed potential differences in the clinical manifestation of PBD among patients with a clear parental history of BD. Additionally, while recent studies suggest that attentional deficits are a potential endophenotypic marker of PBD, it is unclear whether heritability is a relevant contributor to these symptoms. In order to address this gap, the present study assessed 61 youth with PBD (6-17 years old), corresponding to 27 offspring of BD patients, and 31 PBD patients without a parental history of the disorder. All standardized assessments, including the K-SADS-PL-W were performed by trained child and adolescent psychiatrists. We performed a logistic multivariate model using the variables of ADHD, rapid cycling, and lifetime psychosis. Rates of ADHD comorbidity were significantly higher among PBD patients who had a parent with BD. Furthermore, PBD patients who had a parent with BD showed a trend toward significance of earlier symptom onset. PBD offspring did not show increased rates of suicide attempts, rapid cycling, or psychosis. Given these findings, it appears that PBD patients who have a parent with BD may represent a distinct endophenotype of the disorder. Future longitudinal and larger studies are required to confirm our findings.

The Emergent Course of Bipolar Disorder: Observations Over Two Decades From the Canadian High-Risk Offspring Cohort

OBJECTIVE

The authors sought to describe the emergent course of bipolar disorder in offspring of affected parents subgrouped by parental response to lithium prophylaxis.

METHODS

Parent bipolar disorder was confirmed by the best-estimate procedure and lithium response by research protocol. High-risk offspring (N=279) and control subjects (N=87) were blindly assessed, annually on average, with the Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia-Present and Lifetime version or the Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia-Lifetime version. DSM-IV diagnoses were confirmed using the best-estimate procedure in blind consensus reviews. Cumulative incidence and median age at onset were determined for lifetime syndrome- and symptom-level data. Mixed models assessed the association between parent and offspring course. A multistate model was used to estimate the clinical trajectory into bipolar disorder.

RESULTS

The cumulative incidence of bipolar disorder was 24.5%, and the median age at onset was 20.7 years (range, 12.4 to 30.3). The clinical course of the affected parent was associated with that of the affected child. Depressive episodes predominated during the early bipolar course, especially among offspring of lithium responders. Childhood sleep and anxiety disorders significantly predicted 1.6-fold and 1.8-fold increases in risk of mood disorder, respectively, and depressive and manic symptoms predicted 2.7-fold and 2.3-fold increases in risk, respectively. The best-fit model of emerging bipolar disorder was a progressive sequence from nonspecific childhood antecedents to adolescent depression to index manic or hypomanic episode. Subthreshold sleep symptoms were significantly associated with transition from well to non-mood disorder, and psychotic symptoms in mood episodes were significantly associated with transition from unipolar to bipolar disorder.

CONCLUSIONS

Bipolar disorder in individuals at familial risk typically unfolds in a progressive clinical sequence. Childhood sleep and anxiety disorders are important predictors, as are clinically significant mood symptoms and psychotic symptoms in depressive episodes.

The geography of a controversial diagnosis: A bibliographic analysis of published academic perspectives on 'paediatric bipolar disorder'

BACKGROUND

The hypothesis that bipolar disorder presents before puberty with atypical mania has proved to be controversial. Published academic perspectives on the validity of Paediatric Bipolar Disorder (PBD) appear to vary between the United States and the rest of the world.

METHODS

We examined the perspectives of articles citing four seminal articles. The citing articles were grouped as either supportive or non-supportive of the PBD hypothesis, and the perspectives of the articles by US authors were compared with those by non-US authors.

RESULTS

There were 787 citing articles commenting on PBD, mostly published in US-based journals. Most authors were affiliated with several US institutions. Among the 624 articles with US authorship, the majority (83%) supported PBD. Of the 163 articles by non-US authors, most (60%) supported the traditional view that bipolar disorders are rare before mid-adolescence. Published academic perspectives in favour of the PBD hypothesis are mostly concentrated in several US institutions.

CONCLUSION

There is majority support for PBD among citing articles from the United States, whereas the traditional perspective predominates in articles from most other countries.

Neural correlates of emotion processing predict resilience in youth at familial risk for mood disorders

Aberrant face emotion processing has been demonstrated in youth with and at a familial risk for bipolar and major depressive disorders. However, the neurobiological factors related to emotion processing that underlie resilience from youth-onset mood disorders are not well understood. Functional magnetic resonance imaging data during an implicit emotion processing task were collected at baseline from a sample of 50 youth, ages 8-17, who were healthy but also familially at high risk for either bipolar disorder or major depressive disorder, and 24 healthy controls with no family history of psychopathology (HCL). Participants were reevaluated 3 years later and classified into three groups for analysis: high-risk youth who converted to a psychiatric diagnosis (CVT; N = 23), high-risk youth who were resilient from developing any psychopathology (RES; N = 27), and HCL youth (N = 24) who remained healthy at follow-up. For happy &gt; calm faces, the CVT and RES groups had significantly lower activation in the left inferior parietal lobe (IPL), while the RES group had lower activation in the right supramarginal gyrus. For fear &gt; calm faces, the RES group had lower activation in the right precuneus and inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) compared to the CVT group. Connectivity analyses revealed the RES group exhibited higher left IPL connectivity with visual cortical regions for happy &gt; calm faces, and higher IFG connectivity with frontal, temporal, and limbic regions for fear &gt; calm faces. These connectivities were correlated with improvements in prosocial behaviors and global functioning. Our findings suggest that differential activation and connectivity in the IPL, IFG, and precuneus in response to emotional stimuli may represent distinct resilience and risk markers for youth-onset mood disorders.

Debate: Bipolar disorder: extremely rare before puberty and antipsychotics cause serious harms - a commentary on Van Meter et al. (2019)

'Paediatric bipolar disorder' (PBD) remains controversial; because it is based on the hypothesis that bipolar disorder (BD) often begins in childhood with atypical forms of mania. A meta-analysis of 12 epidemiological surveys found a high prevalence of PBD among children and adolescents worldwide (1.8%), however, our study of the measurement issues (Child and Adolescent Mental Health, 23, 2018, 14) found that PBD rates were lower than claimed. Our findings are consistent with the developmental trajectory of BD, as described by most longitudinal studies of high-risk offspring. BD is extremely rare in childhood with nearly all index manic/hypomanic episodes being in midadolescence or later. Treatment for BD should not commence until the first well-defined manic/hypomanic episode, because children and younger adolescents are extremely sensitive to the side effects of second-generation antipsychotics including weight gain, metabolic syndrome, extrapyramidal side effects and the risk of cerebral atrophy, as observed in studies of juvenile animals.

Areas of uncertainties and unmet needs in bipolar disorders: clinical and research perspectives

This Review discusses crucial areas related to the identification, clinical presentation, course, and therapeutic management of bipolar disorder, a major psychiatric illness. Bipolar disorder is often misdiagnosed, leading to inappropriate, inadequate, or delayed treatment. Even when bipolar disorder is successfully diagnosed, its clinical management presents several major challenges, including how best to optimise treatment for an individual patient, and how to balance the benefits and risks of polypharmacy. We discuss the major unmet needs in the diagnosis and management of bipolar disorder in this Review, including improvement of adequate recognition and intervention in at-risk and early-disease stages, identification of reliable warning signs and prevention of relapses in unstable and rapid cycling patients, treatment of refractory depression, and prevention of suicide. Taken together, there are several promising opportunities for improving treatment of bipolar disorder to deliver medical care that is more personalised.

Efficacy and tolerability of lithium for the treatment of acute mania in children with bipolar disorder: A systematic review: A report from the ISBD-IGSLi joint task force on lithium treatment

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy and tolerability of lithium for the treatment of acute mania in children and adolescent diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

METHODS

A systematic literature search up to August 2017 was conducted for clinical trials that included lithium in males and females up to 18 years of age with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder and experiencing a manic or mixed episode according to standardized diagnostic criteria. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42017055675).

RESULTS

Four independent studies described in seven manuscripts met the inclusion criteria. Overall, 176 patients were treated with lithium either as a monotherapy or adjunct to risperidone. Efficacy results suggest that lithium may be superior to placebo (standardized mean difference [SMD] -0.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.88 to 0.04), comparable to sodium divalproex (SMD -0.07, 95% CI: -0.31 to 0.18), but significantly less effective than risperidone for treating protracted manic/mixed episodes and comorbid attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in prepubertal children (SMD 0.85, 95% CI: 0.54 to 1.15). Lithium was not associated with serious adverse events, and was generally well tolerated with common side effects similar to those reported in adults.

CONCLUSIONS

Limited data suggests that lithium may be an effective and tolerable treatment for some forms of paediatric mania. However, lithium is clearly inferior in efficacy to risperidone in prepubertal patients diagnosed with protracted manic/mixed episodes and comorbid ADHD. There is a lack of data concerning the efficacy and tolerability of lithium as an acute treatment for classical mania in adolescents and important clinical issues remain unaddressed.